1. Cook the Beef
- Brown Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain Fat: Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables
- Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Make the Soup Base
- Add Broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Thicken Soup: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens. Add this mixture to the soup pot, stirring well.
4. Add Cheese and Sour Cream
- Stir in Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Season: Add dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, pickle slices, and chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Tips for Success
- Creaminess: For an extra creamy soup, you can use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Cheese: Use good-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it can affect the smoothness of the soup.
- Thickening: If the soup is too thick, you can thin it with additional beef broth or milk.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Toppings: Customize with your favorite cheeseburger toppings like diced tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger soup is a delicious and comforting meal that brings together the best of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, hearty soup. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and satisfying ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!